Ben Stokes Leaves CSK Ahead Of The IPL 2023 Playoffs

image-lhxee18vBen Stokes for CSK in IPL 2023 (Twitter)

Ben Stokes was bought at 16.25 Crore by CSK ahead of the 2023 season with a hope that the Englishman will make big impact with his all-round skills. However, their hopes came crashing down as Ben Stokes managed to play just two games in the season. 

Stokes scored only 15 runs in his two games and with the ball too, he was ineffective. He then suffered a knee injury and was warming the bench throughout the season. 

CSK though have qualified for the Qualifier 1 as they finished at the number 2 spot on the points table. However, Stokes has decided to leave his IPL franchise for his English duties. England are set to play a one-off Test against Ireland starting from 1st June at Lord's and Stokes being England's Test skipper, is naturally expected to lead his troops.

The one-off Test against Ireland is just a precursor to the all-important Ashes that will start on 16th of June. There were always speculations about Stokes unavailability for the last week of the IPL 2023, as he hinted that he would leave the IPL for the Ireland Test on England’s tour of New Zealand itself couple of months back.

Mark Wood will not Return to IPL 2023

Mark Wood, the English speedster who played four games for LSG in IPL 2023, will also not return back for the playoffs to India. He returned to England in the last week of April for the birth of his child and it is confirmed now that he will not return back to India for the IPL.